Suzuki Cervo
Encyclopedia
Suzuki
was the first company to offer a kei car
in 1955. One interesting departure from other Kei car
s was the Fronte Coupé introduced in September 1971. It was a 2+2 (or a strict 2-seater) Giugiaro
-designed mini GT based on the rear-engine Suzuki Fronte
, measuring a mere 2995 mm. It used a 359 cc two-stroke engine developing 31, 34 or 37 hp (35 in later models) depending on equipment level. The Fronte Coupé was discontinued in June, 1976, as it didn't suit the new Kei Jidosha limits, nor the stricter emissions regulations. The "Cervo" name used for the replacement comes from the Italian word for deer
(cervinae in Latin). The nameplate was retired between 1998 and 2006, and again in March 2010, although it may be revived for the Indian market before the end of the year.
and Fronte Hatch, also known as the T5B in the FF Alto/Fronte). The body was based on the Giugiaro designed Fronte Coupé, but with a bulge in the front and bigger bumpers which led to the loss of some of the original's grace. Instead of square headlights, the Cervo received round items. The new rear glass hatch added convenience.
Worse was that the new 550 cc engine was strangled by emissions requirements. Whereas the most powerful 360 cc version had offered 37 PS at 6,000 rpm, the new T5A only provided 28 PS at 5,000 rpm and had an additional 55–80 kg to drag around. To keep acceleration acceptable, gearing was rather low, keeping claimed top speed to 120 km/h (75 mph). This was ten more than the Fronte 7-S sedan version could achieve, thanks to lower wind resistance, but Car Graphic were only able to reach 111.8 kilometre per hour when testing the car in 1977, with the 0–400 m sprint taking 23 seconds. The engine ran out of breath past 7,000 rpm. Suzuki were aware that the Cervo, unlike its predecessor, was no longer a mini GT car. The advertising also reflected this, generally targeting the female demographic (except for the sporty CX-G version).
Equipment levels ranged from the entry-level CX (¥608,000 in 1977), via the "ladies' version" CX-L to the top-of-the-line CX-G (¥698,000). The CX-L was added in 1978 and had brighter trim, to specifically target feminine customers. Only the CX-G had front disc brakes; the others had to make do with drums all around. Handling was as can be expected, the rear-engine leading to a somewhat twitchy front end. In the SC100s, the heavier four-cylinder engine was countered by a balancing weight in the front bumper.
The SS20 Cervo received a very minor facelift in 1978, consisting mainly of interior upgrades. In June 1982, the rear-engined Cervo was discontinued in favor of a more conventionally laid out replacement, the SS40.
For export
, Suzuki transformed the Cervo into the SC100, first introduced in April 1978. The SC100 was known in England
by the nickname "Whizzkid". The three-cylinder engine was replaced by a rear-mounted 970 cc four-cylinder F10A engine (later used in the SJ410) developing 47 PS. Top speed was 142.8 kilometre per hour in a contemporary test. The body differed from the Cervo's in that the windshield was not as steeply raked, necessitating a different doorframe and side window as well. Square headlights were used in European markets, with either round or square ones used elsewhere. In European markets the grille incorporated the chunky indicator lenses, which were normally positioned in a space underneath the bumper – these openings were blanked with plastic grilles.
In the UK it was only available as the lavishly equipped SC100 GX, while in other countries it was also offered as a CX or the more luxurious CX-G. The GX, with a cigar lighter, reclining front seats, and independent all-round suspension, sold for £
2,400 upon introduction (the slightly larger Alto of the same period sold for £3375). The marketing campaign was further helped by an enthusiastic owner, the late LJK Setright, long-time CAR magazine columnist. Other markets included the Netherlands, Hong Kong, South Africa, New Zealand and several Latin American countries.
It was sold in Europe from 1979 to 1982, when production ended. There was only one model change, when dashboard and column switches were modified in January 1980. With demand always outstripping supply, British importer Heron Suzuki sold 4,696 SC100s in Britain, where the car has since then gained minor classic status. Nimag sold around 3,400 SC100s in the Netherlands. As of 2007, there were 54 "Whizzkids" registered for the road in the UK.
/Fronte
, the Cervo now sported front-wheel drive with a transversally mounted four-stroke engine. The F5A engine was the same as used in the SS40 Fronte. A twin-choke carb meant a whopping 29 hp was available, rather than the 28 hp in the "cooking" Alto/Mighty Boy. The Cervo offered a lower, much more sporty driving position than its Alto/Fronte sister cars. Anyone over 172 cm (5 ft 8 in) would certainly hit their head on the ceiling. Strangely, considering its supposedly sporty character, the Cervo was higher geared than its Fronte sister car. Top speed, however, either remained the same as the 110 km/h (68 mph) of the Fronte (according to one source), or a little bit higher, at 115 km/h (71 mph), according to another. To distinguish the Cervo from the other SS40 versions, its model code was SS40C (Alto
: SS40V, Fronte
: SS40S, Mighty Boy: SS40T).
The new more aerodynamic body looked a bit more plain than its sharp predecessor, but the fastback shape echoed Giugiaro's original design. The headlights were square, there was more glass than on the SS20 (but with a broad B-pillar
) and the larger rear glass hatch (still not a proper hatch) now offered better access to a much more usable luggage space. The rear seat folded; some versions even offered a remote opening mechanism and heated rear window. The SS40 was also the first Cervo to offer automatic transmission, a two-speed. This all reflected a steady move away from the original "mini Gran Turismo
" concept towards a much softer "Personal Car
".
When introduced, only a CS (4MT) or CS-Q (2AT) were offered (¥580,000/620,000). By September the more upscale CS-L (5MT) and CS-QL (2AT) were added to the lineup, offering (partially) fabric covered seats and a number of other conveniences at a starting price of ¥687,000. All had 10-inch steel wheels. The automatic transmission was never too popular, offering only two gear ratios and considerably worse acceleration and gas mileage (down 20%), along with a higher price.
In May 1983, less than a year after introduction, the Cervo received a light facelift. In light of new regulations, wing mirrors were moved to the doors and the screw holes on the fenders were covered up. The mechanical changes were light: a slightly adjusted cam profile
, the compression rate
was upped to 9,7:1 (previously 9,5), the EGR and catalytic converter were improved and the engine received an automatic choke. The lineup also received an overhaul, now looking as follows:
There was also a CS-M / CS-QM special edition (based on the CS-D) in either an all-white or an all-red paint scheme with a black and red interior (¥633,000 / ¥673,000). The CS-G was aimed at a more masculine clientel, and was the first SS40 Cervo to use male models in the advertising. The CS-F had a very high 5th gear and offered a 5% gas mileage improvement over other Cervos.
An even sportier version appeared in November 1983, when the CT and CT-G Turbo versions were offered. The F5A Turbo
was Suzuki's first forced induction car engine and produced 40 PS and a useful 54 newton metre. It received an electronic carburator and a lower compression rate of 8,6:1. Only a five-speed manual transmission was available, and front disc brakes were standard. The CT weighed in at 560 kg (1,235 lb), prices were ¥748,000 and ¥898,000 respectively. A two-tone red and black interior and dummy hood scoop added to the Turbo's sporty looks, while the CT-G also received a rev counter. Top speed has been quoted at 135 km/h (84 mph).
In January 1985 another minor facelift occurred, with new, more comfortable seats and a new front grille. The interior also sported more fabric, an improved manual shifter and a half-leather steering wheel on the CT-G. The side mirrors were now mounted in the corner between the door and A-pillar, rather than on the door itself. The CT-G received body colored bumpers and mirrors, which was optional on lesser versions. Power output was up to 31 PS, due to a new carburator. Top speed according to German Auto Katalog
was up by five, to 120 km/h (75 mph). The lineup consisted of the CT-G (sporty Turbo), CS-G (sporty NA), CS-D / CS-QD ("deluxe" versions - with a vinyl rear seat nonetheless) and CS / CS-Q (standard version).
With Kei car sales shrinking overall and the Cervo losing market share, sales were dropping precipitously. In February 1987 the second generation Cervo received its third and final update. The Turbo was discontinued and the lineup rationalized to two versions, the sporty CS-G with a 5-speed manual and the lower grade CS-D with either a 4-speed manual or the 2-speed automatic. As further rationalization, all models now had roll-type safety belts (hitherto, CS and CS-D versions had come with fixed belts), front disc brakes and air conditioning.
By January 1988, a new Cervo had been presented and the SS40C was discontinued shortly thereafter. Due to its lesser sales, the SS40C never received as many technical improvements as its Alto sister model. The Alto Turbo gained fuel injection and other technologies, but the ostensibly sporty Cervo had to make do with a carburetted 40 PS. These days, many Cervo owners modify their cars by bolting on parts from later Altos, making the Cervo live up to its sporty appearance.
/Fronte. The C-pillar was very wide, the front part of the roof was made of glass, there was a small wraparound rear spoiler and a more prominent one at the top of the hatchback lid. One nickname in Japan was "Airbrick", while others referred to it as "Komachi Yokocho" (横丁小町, "side alley beauty") - hinting at the Cervo's continued popularity with stylish young females. The interior was no less unusual than the outside: a large gray and bright yellow diagonal pattern covered the seats while white gauges added a touch of sportiness. Storage compartments abounded, in the thick C-pillars as well as in a central console. A high-powered Mitsubishi Diatone
stereo was also standard.
The new Cervo benefitted from various technical improvements made to the Alto/Fronte, fitting the new F5B SOHC 12-valve three-cylinder (carburated). 40 PS at a peaky 7,500 rpm was available from 547 cc. Three well-equipped models were available:
In March, three models with the world's first electric power steering (CGPF/CGPL/CGPJ) were added to the lineup, at a juicy ¥150,000 surcharge. Actress and pop idol Yuka Ōnishi (大西結花)
was the spokesperson for the ad campaign, while an all female motorcycle racing team (Team Angela) raced a Turbocharged Cervo in the Safari Rally
. However, it was all to no avail: The rivals, Daihatsu's new Leeza
and Mazda's Autozam Carol both sold much better. Combined with the removal of certain tax breaks for small cargo vehicles, this meant that the Cervo's already narrow slot in the market had essentially disappeared. When the new 660 cc Kei regulations were introduced, Suzuki decided to call it quits rather than spend a lot of money to update such a slow-selling vehicle and Cervo production ended in May 1990.
Again targeting the female demographic, the Cervo nameplate made a return in July 1990. Now, however, reflecting the new Kei Jidosha
standards, the engine had grown by 110 cc and it was 100 mm (3.9 in) longer. More shockingly, the car was of a traditional two-box design, sold initially only as a 3-door hatchback. Eventually, the Cervo Mode developed into a full range of cars, coinciding with the discontinuation of the Fronte which had left a niche above the "regular" Alto. Reflecting the desired clientele, heartthrob Yūji Oda
(織田裕二) appeared in the marketing campaign.
The Cervo Mode was initially only available with turbocharged 660 cc engines of either 3- or 4-cylinder configurations. In November 1990 a 5-door version followed, along with lesser engines. The Mode looked more pedestrian than previous Cervos, with the Maruti built version (the "Zen"
) in fact being marketed as the Alto
in Europe.
The Cervo was a bit sportier than it appeared at first sight, however. The hottest version (the SR-Four) was the first Kei car to have a four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC Turbo Intercooler engine (F6B), and was also the first to be equipped with Pirelli P700 tires as standard. ABS was optional, as was Full-time 4WD. Specifications:
By November, 1990, the 52/55 hp (carburated/EPI) non-turbo F6A SOHC 4-valve engine became available, available in a whole range of versions: M as three- or five-door (later only five), with manual or automatic transmissions and FWD or 4WD, a sportier S only as a three door, and the luxurious L only as a five door with the more powerful EPI engine - which also appeared in 4WDs equipped with automatics. In September 1991 the range was revised, receiving side impact protection and a high mounted brakelight. Since these were considered structural changes the car received a new set of model codes, becoming the CN22S/CP22S/CN32S/CP32S. The SR-Four now came with all-around disc brakes while the S-Turbo was discontinued. An FWD automatic MC version joined the range at the lower end, equipped with a column mounted shifter. Other special versions abounded, with the luxurious F-Limited EPI 3-door joining in December 1991 and the somewhat cheaper, carburated M Selection in April 1992. In July of that year, the 3-door, automatic only S Selection managed to find a slot in a pricelist now comprising a faintly ridiculous 27 variants. This didn't hinder Suzuki from adding more versions, the well-equipped LoFt (sic), in June 1994 and the A in April of that year.
In October, 1995, the lineup received a facelift and some minor technical changes. A 2-valve base version (the B, C and E), developing 42 hp joined. The carburated 12-valve engine equipped the M Selection, the LoFt, FF versions of the S Selection, the X and the F-Limited. The 55 hp EPI version was also available in the 4WD M Selection. The SR-Turbo lost two valves per cylinder but gained an intercooler in the process, bringing claimed power up to the same 64 PS as in the more expensive SR-Four. Kei car
s just so happen to be limited to 64 PS, but it was a badly kept secret that the four-cylinder F6B developed considerably more than that. The X was alone in being offered with a 4-speed automatic.
By May 1997, as the Wagon R
(itself based on the Cervo Mode) was stealing ever more of the Cervo's sales, the turbocharged versions were discontinued as the lineup was shrunk to the S-Limited (42, 52 or 55 PS) and the M Selection (52/55 hp). The 52 PS (55 in the AT 4WD version) 3-door SR joined in January 1998, attempting to fill the gap left by the Turbocharged models. By October 1998, with new regulations looming, the Cervo was once again discontinued.
In August 1996 the retro-look Cervo C (for "Classic") appeared, following the success of Subaru's Vivio Bistro
and Mitsuoka's original Viewt
. The Cervo C came as a well-equipped five-door with the 52 PS F6A engine (55 PS in the automatic 4WD version). A high-powered AM/FM cassette stereo was standard, as were power windows and locks as well as wooden details on the dash and steering wheel. Automatic transmission and/or four wheel drive were optional. The metal bodywork was the same as on the Cervo Mode, but the front assembly was entirely different and chromed bumpers, mirrors and doorhandles added to the classic look. In May 1997 a three-door version joined the lineup. Production ended in October 1998, when the Cervo Mode sister model was discontinued. Also launched in India as the "Zen Classic" it was not well received, becoming a huge flop in the Indian market.
In November 2006, Suzuki reintroduced the Cervo name. The modern, Alto-based Cervo is still a kei car
but is much more luxurious than its predecessor. The Cervo originally came equipped with the 658 cc K6A engine (54 hp in the normally aspirated VVT
G version, 60 hp in the turbo T and TX version). It is only available as a five-door with a four-speed automatic (with a manual mode in the turbo cars), and is marketed as a more masculine alternative to the MR Wagon
. The nicer grade Cervos came with keyless entry and Bluetooth
. In June 2007 a G Limited normally aspirated model was added, with the fourteen-inch alloys and rear spoiler of the TX.
In October 2007, the Cervo received the Good Design Award
, and the SR version was introduced. This had a new, 64 hp direct injection
turbo engine and a seven-step CVT transmission
, the first time for such a combination to be available. With front wheel drive, this car achieved a remarkable 23.0 km/l (54 mpg) on the test cycle. The Cervo also received some minor updates across the line, with new liquid seal engine mounts and suspension changes. In May 2008 the range received more minor updates, with new colors being added and a new limited edition model, the G Limited II, which featured alcantara interior and a sporty exterior. Other models received new aero parts and other equipment, gas discharge headlights were now available on the SR.
In May 2009, the Cervo received its most recent upgrade. The T model was discontinued, the TX received the "aero" front dam of the SR while the gas mileage of the G version was improved to meet the 15% gas mileage improvement goals for Japanese fiscal year 2010. The very efficient SR is the only turbocharged Kei car
to qualify for the lower tax grades for especially environmentally friendly vehicles, combining this with being the most powerful version. The Cervo was discontinued by Suzuki during March 2010.
n subsidiary of Suzuki is planning to launch a reduced version of Cervo in Indian market as a competition to Tata Nano
. Suzuki expects to regain the market prominence in the small car segment it had enjoyed during the era of Maruti 800
. Maruti Cervo is priced between Rs 150,000 - Rs 200,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), which would be markedly higher than the price of a Tata Nano. The Cervo was expected to be rolled out within 2010.
Suzuki
is a Japanese multinational corporation headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan that specializes in manufacturing compact automobiles and 4x4 vehicles, a full range of motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles , outboard marine engines, wheelchairs and a variety of other small internal combustion engines...
was the first company to offer a kei car
Kei car
Kei cars, K-cars, or , are a Japanese category of small vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, and pickup trucks. They are designed to comply with Japanese government tax and insurance regulations, and in most rural areas are exempted from the requirement to certify that adequate parking is...
in 1955. One interesting departure from other Kei car
Kei car
Kei cars, K-cars, or , are a Japanese category of small vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, and pickup trucks. They are designed to comply with Japanese government tax and insurance regulations, and in most rural areas are exempted from the requirement to certify that adequate parking is...
s was the Fronte Coupé introduced in September 1971. It was a 2+2 (or a strict 2-seater) Giugiaro
Giorgetto Giugiaro
Giorgetto Giugiaro is an Italian automobile designer responsible equally for a stable of supercars and several of the most popular everyday vehicles driven today...
-designed mini GT based on the rear-engine Suzuki Fronte
Suzuki Fronte
The Fronte automobile was first introduced in March 1962 as a sedan version of the Suzulight Van. The nameplate remained in use for Suzuki's Kei car sedans until replaced by the Alto name in September 1988....
, measuring a mere 2995 mm. It used a 359 cc two-stroke engine developing 31, 34 or 37 hp (35 in later models) depending on equipment level. The Fronte Coupé was discontinued in June, 1976, as it didn't suit the new Kei Jidosha limits, nor the stricter emissions regulations. The "Cervo" name used for the replacement comes from the Italian word for deer
Deer
Deer are the ruminant mammals forming the family Cervidae. Species in the Cervidae family include white-tailed deer, elk, moose, red deer, reindeer, fallow deer, roe deer and chital. Male deer of all species and female reindeer grow and shed new antlers each year...
(cervinae in Latin). The nameplate was retired between 1998 and 2006, and again in March 2010, although it may be revived for the Indian market before the end of the year.
Cervo SS20 (first generation)
After a hiatus of over a year, Suzuki returned to the sports minicar market with the new Cervo in October 1977. The SS20 Cervo was mainly a JDM model (although it was also sold as a LHD in Chile) with a 539 cc three-cylinder, two-stroke engine. The SS20 used the chassis from the 1976 Fronte 7-S, but was equipped with the larger T5A engine (this was the rear-mounted version of the LJ50 used in the JimnySuzuki Jimny
The Suzuki Jimny is a line of SUVs from Suzuki. The line started in 1968 and is still running.-History:The history of Suzuki four-wheel-drive cars dates to 1968. Suzuki bought former Japanese automaker Hope Motor Company which had introduced fifteen small off-road vehicles called the HopeStar...
and Fronte Hatch, also known as the T5B in the FF Alto/Fronte). The body was based on the Giugiaro designed Fronte Coupé, but with a bulge in the front and bigger bumpers which led to the loss of some of the original's grace. Instead of square headlights, the Cervo received round items. The new rear glass hatch added convenience.
Worse was that the new 550 cc engine was strangled by emissions requirements. Whereas the most powerful 360 cc version had offered 37 PS at 6,000 rpm, the new T5A only provided 28 PS at 5,000 rpm and had an additional 55–80 kg to drag around. To keep acceleration acceptable, gearing was rather low, keeping claimed top speed to 120 km/h (75 mph). This was ten more than the Fronte 7-S sedan version could achieve, thanks to lower wind resistance, but Car Graphic were only able to reach 111.8 kilometre per hour when testing the car in 1977, with the 0–400 m sprint taking 23 seconds. The engine ran out of breath past 7,000 rpm. Suzuki were aware that the Cervo, unlike its predecessor, was no longer a mini GT car. The advertising also reflected this, generally targeting the female demographic (except for the sporty CX-G version).
Equipment levels ranged from the entry-level CX (¥608,000 in 1977), via the "ladies' version" CX-L to the top-of-the-line CX-G (¥698,000). The CX-L was added in 1978 and had brighter trim, to specifically target feminine customers. Only the CX-G had front disc brakes; the others had to make do with drums all around. Handling was as can be expected, the rear-engine leading to a somewhat twitchy front end. In the SC100s, the heavier four-cylinder engine was countered by a balancing weight in the front bumper.
The SS20 Cervo received a very minor facelift in 1978, consisting mainly of interior upgrades. In June 1982, the rear-engined Cervo was discontinued in favor of a more conventionally laid out replacement, the SS40.
SC100
Export
The term export is derived from the conceptual meaning as to ship the goods and services out of the port of a country. The seller of such goods and services is referred to as an "exporter" who is based in the country of export whereas the overseas based buyer is referred to as an "importer"...
, Suzuki transformed the Cervo into the SC100, first introduced in April 1978. The SC100 was known in England
England
England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, with the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south separating it from continental...
by the nickname "Whizzkid". The three-cylinder engine was replaced by a rear-mounted 970 cc four-cylinder F10A engine (later used in the SJ410) developing 47 PS. Top speed was 142.8 kilometre per hour in a contemporary test. The body differed from the Cervo's in that the windshield was not as steeply raked, necessitating a different doorframe and side window as well. Square headlights were used in European markets, with either round or square ones used elsewhere. In European markets the grille incorporated the chunky indicator lenses, which were normally positioned in a space underneath the bumper – these openings were blanked with plastic grilles.
In the UK it was only available as the lavishly equipped SC100 GX, while in other countries it was also offered as a CX or the more luxurious CX-G. The GX, with a cigar lighter, reclining front seats, and independent all-round suspension, sold for £
Pound sterling
The pound sterling , commonly called the pound, is the official currency of the United Kingdom, its Crown Dependencies and the British Overseas Territories of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, British Antarctic Territory and Tristan da Cunha. It is subdivided into 100 pence...
2,400 upon introduction (the slightly larger Alto of the same period sold for £3375). The marketing campaign was further helped by an enthusiastic owner, the late LJK Setright, long-time CAR magazine columnist. Other markets included the Netherlands, Hong Kong, South Africa, New Zealand and several Latin American countries.
It was sold in Europe from 1979 to 1982, when production ended. There was only one model change, when dashboard and column switches were modified in January 1980. With demand always outstripping supply, British importer Heron Suzuki sold 4,696 SC100s in Britain, where the car has since then gained minor classic status. Nimag sold around 3,400 SC100s in the Netherlands. As of 2007, there were 54 "Whizzkids" registered for the road in the UK.
| engine | F10A, 970 cc OHC I4 |
| power | 47 hp at 5,000 rpm |
| torque | 83 Nm (61.3 lb·ft) at 2,500 (or 3,000) rpm |
| transmission | 4-speed manual |
| length × width × height | 3,190 × 1,395 × 1,230 mm (125.6 × 54.9 × 48.4 in) |
| weight | 625 kilogram |
Cervo SS40 (2nd generation)
In June 1982, an all-new Cervo was presented. Based on the underpinnings of the recently changed AltoSuzuki Alto
The Suzuki Alto is a small car designed by Suzuki. Its selling points include low price and good fuel economy. The model was introduced in 1979 and has been built in many countries worldwide.-1st generation :...
/Fronte
Suzuki Fronte
The Fronte automobile was first introduced in March 1962 as a sedan version of the Suzulight Van. The nameplate remained in use for Suzuki's Kei car sedans until replaced by the Alto name in September 1988....
, the Cervo now sported front-wheel drive with a transversally mounted four-stroke engine. The F5A engine was the same as used in the SS40 Fronte. A twin-choke carb meant a whopping 29 hp was available, rather than the 28 hp in the "cooking" Alto/Mighty Boy. The Cervo offered a lower, much more sporty driving position than its Alto/Fronte sister cars. Anyone over 172 cm (5 ft 8 in) would certainly hit their head on the ceiling. Strangely, considering its supposedly sporty character, the Cervo was higher geared than its Fronte sister car. Top speed, however, either remained the same as the 110 km/h (68 mph) of the Fronte (according to one source), or a little bit higher, at 115 km/h (71 mph), according to another. To distinguish the Cervo from the other SS40 versions, its model code was SS40C (Alto
Suzuki Alto
The Suzuki Alto is a small car designed by Suzuki. Its selling points include low price and good fuel economy. The model was introduced in 1979 and has been built in many countries worldwide.-1st generation :...
: SS40V, Fronte
Suzuki Fronte
The Fronte automobile was first introduced in March 1962 as a sedan version of the Suzulight Van. The nameplate remained in use for Suzuki's Kei car sedans until replaced by the Alto name in September 1988....
: SS40S, Mighty Boy: SS40T).
Pillar (car)
Pillars are the vertical supports of the greenhouse of an automobile — known respectively as the A, B, C or D-pillar moving in profile view from the front to rear....
) and the larger rear glass hatch (still not a proper hatch) now offered better access to a much more usable luggage space. The rear seat folded; some versions even offered a remote opening mechanism and heated rear window. The SS40 was also the first Cervo to offer automatic transmission, a two-speed. This all reflected a steady move away from the original "mini Gran Turismo
Grand tourer
A grand tourer is a high-performance luxury automobile designed for long-distance driving. The most common format is a two-door coupé with either a two-seat or a 2+2 arrangement....
" concept towards a much softer "Personal Car
Personal luxury car
A personal luxury car is a highly styled, luxury vehicle with an emphasis on image over practicality. Accenting the comfort and satisfaction of its owner and driver above all else, the personal luxury car sometimes sacrifices passenger capacity, cargo room, and fuel economy in favor of style and...
".
When introduced, only a CS (4MT) or CS-Q (2AT) were offered (¥580,000/620,000). By September the more upscale CS-L (5MT) and CS-QL (2AT) were added to the lineup, offering (partially) fabric covered seats and a number of other conveniences at a starting price of ¥687,000. All had 10-inch steel wheels. The automatic transmission was never too popular, offering only two gear ratios and considerably worse acceleration and gas mileage (down 20%), along with a higher price.
In May 1983, less than a year after introduction, the Cervo received a light facelift. In light of new regulations, wing mirrors were moved to the doors and the screw holes on the fenders were covered up. The mechanical changes were light: a slightly adjusted cam profile
Camshaft
A camshaft is a shaft to which a cam is fastened or of which a cam forms an integral part.-History:An early cam was built into Hellenistic water-driven automata from the 3rd century BC. The camshaft was later described in Iraq by Al-Jazari in 1206. He employed it as part of his automata,...
, the compression rate
Compression ratio
The 'compression ratio' of an internal-combustion engine or external combustion engine is a value that represents the ratio of the volume of its combustion chamber from its largest capacity to its smallest capacity...
was upped to 9,7:1 (previously 9,5), the EGR and catalytic converter were improved and the engine received an automatic choke. The lineup also received an overhaul, now looking as follows:
| CS / CS-Q | Base versions, 4MT / 2AT. No radio. Single speed wipers. |
¥580,000 / ¥620,000 |
| CS-D / CS-QD | Slightly upscale, 4MT/2AT. AM radio. Intermittent wipers. |
¥650,000 / ¥690,000 |
| CS-F | 5MT, fuel efficient version which helped replace the CS-L. Radial tires. |
¥719,000 |
| CS-G | Sporty version, 5MT. Rev counter, 12-inch wheels, optional alloys. Front disc brakes. |
¥730,000 |
There was also a CS-M / CS-QM special edition (based on the CS-D) in either an all-white or an all-red paint scheme with a black and red interior (¥633,000 / ¥673,000). The CS-G was aimed at a more masculine clientel, and was the first SS40 Cervo to use male models in the advertising. The CS-F had a very high 5th gear and offered a 5% gas mileage improvement over other Cervos.
An even sportier version appeared in November 1983, when the CT and CT-G Turbo versions were offered. The F5A Turbo
Turbocharger
A turbocharger, or turbo , from the Greek "τύρβη" is a centrifugal compressor powered by a turbine that is driven by an engine's exhaust gases. Its benefit lies with the compressor increasing the mass of air entering the engine , thereby resulting in greater performance...
was Suzuki's first forced induction car engine and produced 40 PS and a useful 54 newton metre. It received an electronic carburator and a lower compression rate of 8,6:1. Only a five-speed manual transmission was available, and front disc brakes were standard. The CT weighed in at 560 kg (1,235 lb), prices were ¥748,000 and ¥898,000 respectively. A two-tone red and black interior and dummy hood scoop added to the Turbo's sporty looks, while the CT-G also received a rev counter. Top speed has been quoted at 135 km/h (84 mph).
In January 1985 another minor facelift occurred, with new, more comfortable seats and a new front grille. The interior also sported more fabric, an improved manual shifter and a half-leather steering wheel on the CT-G. The side mirrors were now mounted in the corner between the door and A-pillar, rather than on the door itself. The CT-G received body colored bumpers and mirrors, which was optional on lesser versions. Power output was up to 31 PS, due to a new carburator. Top speed according to German Auto Katalog
Auto, Motor und Sport
auto motor und sport , often abbreviated to AMS, is a leading German automobile magazine. It is published fortnightly by Motor Presse Netzwerk subsidiary Motor Presse Stuttgart, a specialist magazine publisher that is 59.9% owned by the publishing house Gruner + Jahr.The magazine, originally...
was up by five, to 120 km/h (75 mph). The lineup consisted of the CT-G (sporty Turbo), CS-G (sporty NA), CS-D / CS-QD ("deluxe" versions - with a vinyl rear seat nonetheless) and CS / CS-Q (standard version).
With Kei car sales shrinking overall and the Cervo losing market share, sales were dropping precipitously. In February 1987 the second generation Cervo received its third and final update. The Turbo was discontinued and the lineup rationalized to two versions, the sporty CS-G with a 5-speed manual and the lower grade CS-D with either a 4-speed manual or the 2-speed automatic. As further rationalization, all models now had roll-type safety belts (hitherto, CS and CS-D versions had come with fixed belts), front disc brakes and air conditioning.
By January 1988, a new Cervo had been presented and the SS40C was discontinued shortly thereafter. Due to its lesser sales, the SS40C never received as many technical improvements as its Alto sister model. The Alto Turbo gained fuel injection and other technologies, but the ostensibly sporty Cervo had to make do with a carburetted 40 PS. These days, many Cervo owners modify their cars by bolting on parts from later Altos, making the Cervo live up to its sporty appearance.
Cervo CG72V/CH72V (3rd generation)
On January 22, 1988, the newest Cervo was introduced. Suzuki were accentuating the Cervo's van capabilities this time around, with a squat, boxy rear end which gave the car an excceedingly bizarre appearance in combination with the front clip and door skins of the AltoSuzuki Alto
The Suzuki Alto is a small car designed by Suzuki. Its selling points include low price and good fuel economy. The model was introduced in 1979 and has been built in many countries worldwide.-1st generation :...
/Fronte. The C-pillar was very wide, the front part of the roof was made of glass, there was a small wraparound rear spoiler and a more prominent one at the top of the hatchback lid. One nickname in Japan was "Airbrick", while others referred to it as "Komachi Yokocho" (横丁小町, "side alley beauty") - hinting at the Cervo's continued popularity with stylish young females. The interior was no less unusual than the outside: a large gray and bright yellow diagonal pattern covered the seats while white gauges added a touch of sportiness. Storage compartments abounded, in the thick C-pillars as well as in a central console. A high-powered Mitsubishi Diatone
Diatone
Diatone was a division of the Japanese electronics manufacturer Mitsubishi Electric which made loudspeaker drivers and home and studio loudspeaker systems...
stereo was also standard.
The new Cervo benefitted from various technical improvements made to the Alto/Fronte, fitting the new F5B SOHC 12-valve three-cylinder (carburated). 40 PS at a peaky 7,500 rpm was available from 547 cc. Three well-equipped models were available:
- CGXF front wheel drive, 5MT. ¥698,000 (CG72V)
- CGXL front wheel drive, 3AT. ¥750,000 (CG72V)
- CGXJ four wheel drive, 5MT. ¥770,000 (CH72V)
In March, three models with the world's first electric power steering (CGPF/CGPL/CGPJ) were added to the lineup, at a juicy ¥150,000 surcharge. Actress and pop idol Yuka Ōnishi (大西結花)
Yuka Onishi
Yuka Onishi or Ohnishi is a Japanese actress, idol singer in the 1980's, notable in the west for her role in the TV series Sukeban Deka III in 1987 and its following movies, Sukeban Deka: The Movie and Sukeban Deka II.- Albums :* 1986.07.01 : Abunai Tightrope* 1987.08.31 : Take a Chance -...
was the spokesperson for the ad campaign, while an all female motorcycle racing team (Team Angela) raced a Turbocharged Cervo in the Safari Rally
Safari Rally
The Safari Rally is considered by many to be the world's toughest rally. It was first held from 27 May to 1 June 1953 as the East African Coronation Safari in Kenya, Uganda and Tanganyika, as a celebration of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II...
. However, it was all to no avail: The rivals, Daihatsu's new Leeza
Daihatsu Leeza
The Daihatsu Leeza was a kei car launched in Japan in 1986 and was replaced in 1992 by the Daihatsu Opti. In 1990, it was available for between ¥698,000 and ¥950,000 in R, ChaCha and Oxy trim lines. The Leeza was also available as a convertible named the 'Spyder' which had a leather interior...
and Mazda's Autozam Carol both sold much better. Combined with the removal of certain tax breaks for small cargo vehicles, this meant that the Cervo's already narrow slot in the market had essentially disappeared. When the new 660 cc Kei regulations were introduced, Suzuki decided to call it quits rather than spend a lot of money to update such a slow-selling vehicle and Cervo production ended in May 1990.
Cervo Mode (4th generation)
(CN21-22S / CP21-22S / CN31-32S / CP31-32S)Again targeting the female demographic, the Cervo nameplate made a return in July 1990. Now, however, reflecting the new Kei Jidosha
Kei car
Kei cars, K-cars, or , are a Japanese category of small vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, and pickup trucks. They are designed to comply with Japanese government tax and insurance regulations, and in most rural areas are exempted from the requirement to certify that adequate parking is...
standards, the engine had grown by 110 cc and it was 100 mm (3.9 in) longer. More shockingly, the car was of a traditional two-box design, sold initially only as a 3-door hatchback. Eventually, the Cervo Mode developed into a full range of cars, coinciding with the discontinuation of the Fronte which had left a niche above the "regular" Alto. Reflecting the desired clientele, heartthrob Yūji Oda
Yuji Oda
is a Japanese actor and singer.Yuji Oda was born on 13 December 1967 in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. He was born to an upper-middle-class family and attended the private academy of Touin Gakuen. Originally he had a promising career in sports, but had to give it up after a knee injury. He...
(織田裕二) appeared in the marketing campaign.
Maruti Zen
The Maruti Zen is a 5-door hatchback produced and sold in India by Indian automaker Maruti Suzuki. It has acquired significant popularity in India since the nameplate was first introduced in 1993. The word "ZEN" is an acronym standing for Zero Engine Noise...
) in fact being marketed as the Alto
Suzuki Alto
The Suzuki Alto is a small car designed by Suzuki. Its selling points include low price and good fuel economy. The model was introduced in 1979 and has been built in many countries worldwide.-1st generation :...
in Europe.
The Cervo was a bit sportier than it appeared at first sight, however. The hottest version (the SR-Four) was the first Kei car to have a four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC Turbo Intercooler engine (F6B), and was also the first to be equipped with Pirelli P700 tires as standard. ABS was optional, as was Full-time 4WD. Specifications:
| 1990 Suzuki Cervo Mode | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| model | gears | engine | power | weight | (lbs) |
| S-Turbo FF (CN21S) | 5MT (3AT) | F6A, 657 cc 3-cyl | 61 PS at 6,000 rpm | 650 (670) kg | 1,433 (1,477) |
| S-Turbo 4WD (CP21S) | 5MT | 710 kg | 1,565 | ||
| SR-Turbo FF (CN21S) | 5MT (3AT) | 650 (670) kg | 1,433 (1,477) | ||
| SR-Turbo 4WD (CP21S) | 5MT | 710 kg | 1,565 | ||
| SR-Four FF (CN31S) | 5MT | F6B, 658 cc 4-cyl | 64 PS at 7,000 rpm | 670 kg | 1,477 |
| SR-Four 4WD (CP31S) | 5MT | 730 kg | 1,609 | ||
By November, 1990, the 52/55 hp (carburated/EPI) non-turbo F6A SOHC 4-valve engine became available, available in a whole range of versions: M as three- or five-door (later only five), with manual or automatic transmissions and FWD or 4WD, a sportier S only as a three door, and the luxurious L only as a five door with the more powerful EPI engine - which also appeared in 4WDs equipped with automatics. In September 1991 the range was revised, receiving side impact protection and a high mounted brakelight. Since these were considered structural changes the car received a new set of model codes, becoming the CN22S/CP22S/CN32S/CP32S. The SR-Four now came with all-around disc brakes while the S-Turbo was discontinued. An FWD automatic MC version joined the range at the lower end, equipped with a column mounted shifter. Other special versions abounded, with the luxurious F-Limited EPI 3-door joining in December 1991 and the somewhat cheaper, carburated M Selection in April 1992. In July of that year, the 3-door, automatic only S Selection managed to find a slot in a pricelist now comprising a faintly ridiculous 27 variants. This didn't hinder Suzuki from adding more versions, the well-equipped LoFt (sic), in June 1994 and the A in April of that year.
In October, 1995, the lineup received a facelift and some minor technical changes. A 2-valve base version (the B, C and E), developing 42 hp joined. The carburated 12-valve engine equipped the M Selection, the LoFt, FF versions of the S Selection, the X and the F-Limited. The 55 hp EPI version was also available in the 4WD M Selection. The SR-Turbo lost two valves per cylinder but gained an intercooler in the process, bringing claimed power up to the same 64 PS as in the more expensive SR-Four. Kei car
Kei car
Kei cars, K-cars, or , are a Japanese category of small vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, and pickup trucks. They are designed to comply with Japanese government tax and insurance regulations, and in most rural areas are exempted from the requirement to certify that adequate parking is...
s just so happen to be limited to 64 PS, but it was a badly kept secret that the four-cylinder F6B developed considerably more than that. The X was alone in being offered with a 4-speed automatic.
By May 1997, as the Wagon R
Suzuki Wagon R
The Suzuki Wagon R is a kei car first introduced in Japan in 1993, and is still in production by Suzuki. The R stands for Recreation. It is one of the first cars to use the "tall wagon or tall boy" design in which the car is designed to be unusually tall with a short bonnet and almost vertical...
(itself based on the Cervo Mode) was stealing ever more of the Cervo's sales, the turbocharged versions were discontinued as the lineup was shrunk to the S-Limited (42, 52 or 55 PS) and the M Selection (52/55 hp). The 52 PS (55 in the AT 4WD version) 3-door SR joined in January 1998, attempting to fill the gap left by the Turbocharged models. By October 1998, with new regulations looming, the Cervo was once again discontinued.
Cervo C (Classic)
Subaru Vivio
The Subaru Vivio is a kei car that was introduced in March 1992, and manufactured by Subaru until October 1998. It has a 658 cc multi-point fuel-injected four-cylinder engine , which is small enough to place it in the light car class, giving its owners large tax breaks in Japan...
and Mitsuoka's original Viewt
Mitsuoka Viewt
The Mitsuoka Viewt is a modification of the Nissan March/Micra, intended to resemble the Jaguar Mark 2. It, along with Mitsuoka's later Galue, encouraged larger Japanese manufacturers to produce retro-styled versions of their own cars.- The K11 Viewt :...
. The Cervo C came as a well-equipped five-door with the 52 PS F6A engine (55 PS in the automatic 4WD version). A high-powered AM/FM cassette stereo was standard, as were power windows and locks as well as wooden details on the dash and steering wheel. Automatic transmission and/or four wheel drive were optional. The metal bodywork was the same as on the Cervo Mode, but the front assembly was entirely different and chromed bumpers, mirrors and doorhandles added to the classic look. In May 1997 a three-door version joined the lineup. Production ended in October 1998, when the Cervo Mode sister model was discontinued. Also launched in India as the "Zen Classic" it was not well received, becoming a huge flop in the Indian market.
Cervo HG21S (5th generation)
Kei car
Kei cars, K-cars, or , are a Japanese category of small vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, and pickup trucks. They are designed to comply with Japanese government tax and insurance regulations, and in most rural areas are exempted from the requirement to certify that adequate parking is...
but is much more luxurious than its predecessor. The Cervo originally came equipped with the 658 cc K6A engine (54 hp in the normally aspirated VVT
Variable valve timing
In internal combustion engines, variable valve timing , also known as Variable valve actuation , is a generalized term used to describe any mechanism or method that can alter the shape or timing of a valve lift event within an internal combustion engine...
G version, 60 hp in the turbo T and TX version). It is only available as a five-door with a four-speed automatic (with a manual mode in the turbo cars), and is marketed as a more masculine alternative to the MR Wagon
Suzuki MR Wagon
The Suzuki MR Wagon is a kei car with a mini MPV body, seating four, manufactured by Suzuki for the Japanese market only, and also marketed in Japan by Nissan as the Nissan Moco under an OEM agreement. The model debuted in 2001, and since 2007 it has been in its second generation...
. The nicer grade Cervos came with keyless entry and Bluetooth
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks with high levels of security...
. In June 2007 a G Limited normally aspirated model was added, with the fourteen-inch alloys and rear spoiler of the TX.
In October 2007, the Cervo received the Good Design Award
Good Design Award
The is Japanese comprehensive design evaluation and commendation system, operated by Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization . The system has its origins in the “Good Design Selection System” instituted by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Japan in 1957.The award system...
, and the SR version was introduced. This had a new, 64 hp direct injection
Gasoline direct injection
In internal combustion engines, gasoline direct injection , also known as petrol direct injection or direct petrol injection, is a variant of fuel injection employed in modern two-stroke and four-stroke gasoline engines...
turbo engine and a seven-step CVT transmission
Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission is a transmission that can change steplessly through an infinite number of effective gear ratios between maximum and minimum values. This contrasts with other mechanical transmissions that offer a fixed number of gear ratios...
, the first time for such a combination to be available. With front wheel drive, this car achieved a remarkable 23.0 km/l (54 mpg) on the test cycle. The Cervo also received some minor updates across the line, with new liquid seal engine mounts and suspension changes. In May 2008 the range received more minor updates, with new colors being added and a new limited edition model, the G Limited II, which featured alcantara interior and a sporty exterior. Other models received new aero parts and other equipment, gas discharge headlights were now available on the SR.
In May 2009, the Cervo received its most recent upgrade. The T model was discontinued, the TX received the "aero" front dam of the SR while the gas mileage of the G version was improved to meet the 15% gas mileage improvement goals for Japanese fiscal year 2010. The very efficient SR is the only turbocharged Kei car
Kei car
Kei cars, K-cars, or , are a Japanese category of small vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, and pickup trucks. They are designed to comply with Japanese government tax and insurance regulations, and in most rural areas are exempted from the requirement to certify that adequate parking is...
to qualify for the lower tax grades for especially environmentally friendly vehicles, combining this with being the most powerful version. The Cervo was discontinued by Suzuki during March 2010.
Maruti Cervo
Maruti Suzuki, the IndiaIndia
India , officially the Republic of India , is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world...
n subsidiary of Suzuki is planning to launch a reduced version of Cervo in Indian market as a competition to Tata Nano
Tata Nano
The Tata Nano is an inexpensive, rear-engined, four-passenger city car built by the Indian company Tata Motors and is aimed primarily at the Indian domestic market....
. Suzuki expects to regain the market prominence in the small car segment it had enjoyed during the era of Maruti 800
Maruti 800
Maruti 800 is a city car manufactured by Maruti Suzuki in India. It is a rebadged version of an old model of the Suzuki Alto. Over 2.5 million Maruti 800s have been sold since its launch in 1983...
. Maruti Cervo is priced between Rs 150,000 - Rs 200,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), which would be markedly higher than the price of a Tata Nano. The Cervo was expected to be rolled out within 2010.